Job Advertisement:
Post-doctoral Research Position in Primatology
The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology unites scientists with various backgrounds (natural sciences and humanities) whose aim is to investigate the history of humankind from an interdisciplinary perspective.
About the position
The Technological Primates Research Group at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig is seeking qualified applicants for a post-doctoral research position to study tool behavior in non human primates. The position is offered initially as a full time, 12 months contract with the possibility of extension for an additional 12 months. Starting date should be no later than March 2022. This position is based in Leipzig, Germany. Remote working is not feasible. The salary is according to the German public service pay scale (TVöD Bund).
The broad aims of the group are to research tool use behaviour across primate species, including both non-human and human, with a focus on behavioural evolution and the origin on of technology in primates and humans. We are actively involved in researching the tool use behaviours of bearded capuchins (Brazil), long tailed macaques (Thailand) and chimpanzees (Ivory Coast) as well as collaborating on archaeological research in Kenya.
(More information on our group can be found here: https://www.eva.mpg.de/technological-primates/.)
About you
We are seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and independent researcher with a documented research profile reflected in publications in international journals. The successful applicant will have obtained a PhD within the past 3 years (or be nearing completion of a PhD) in primatology, animal behaviour or a related discipline and has demonstrable experience of field related research methods and techniques. Previous field experience working in remote places under difficult living conditions is of benefit.
The successful applicant will be responsible for contributing to ongoing research projects as well as developing and leading research projects in line with the broad aims of the group. We expect the candidate to be able to analyse detailed and complex qualitative and quantitative data from a variety of data sets (both lab and field based), and generate original ideas as well as building on existing concepts. A strong understanding of computation statistics and modeling is essential (using R statistical language) as well as a working understanding of other analytical techniques, including GIS packages, archaeological and / or primatological fieldwork techniques. Frequent publication of research articles in peer-reviewed journals and presentations of papers at national and international conferences is required.
The applicant is expected to supervise students and research assistants in both field and desktop studies (in tasks such as video coding, quantitative data collection, and use of statistical packages) when required.
The successful applicant will be proficient in oral and written communication in the English language and possess excellent independent working and time management skills as well as an ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.
The Max Planck Society wishes to employ more people with disabilities; applications from people with disabilities are therefore explicitly sought. The Max Planck Society wishes to increase the proportion of women; women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.
Applications should include
1. Curriculum Vita
2. Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) including a description of research experience and interests.
3. The names and contact details of three references (who will be contacted in the case of being invited to interview).
4. Reprints of two selected publications or writing samples
If invited to interview candidates will be expected to make a short presentation on their previous work as part of the selection process, and demonstrate a working knowledge of R.
Application deadline: December 6th 2021
Please visit the following link for your online application: